An inventory of the contents of the property/room must be taken as the tenancy/licence begins. The inventory should not just be a list of the furniture, fixtures and fittings, but must include any damage that currently exists. It should also point out the conditions of the walls, curtains, carpets, bathroom, kitchen appliances, garden (if applicable) and the property as it stands. The inventory should be agreed upon and signed by both landlord and tenant (without signatures it is not valid). This document is often overlooked, but will help prevent disputes over the return of the deposit or any deductions necessary at the end of the tenancy. If you do not feel confident to do this yourself there are specialist companies that can do it on your behalf, which will ensure that it is professionally compiled and impartial.
Download an Example inventory [PDF 3,813KB] here.
Deposits are normally the equivalent of one months rent (the legal maximum is five weeks rent). The deposit is paid as an indemnity against damage or other disbursements (except 'fair wear and tear') within a rented property/room. Deposits can cover outstanding rent (or other bills), to make good or replace damaged items of furniture, the cost of cleaning necessary to return the property to a let-able condition, the cost of removing large amounts of waste, or the cost of replacing lost keys or locks. If the whole deposit, or a proportion of it, is withheld at the end of the tenancy, a written breakdown of deductions must be given to the tenant.
Since April 2007 deposits paid in respect of an Assured Shorthold tenancy only must be protected by a Tenancy Deposit Scheme.Within 30 days of taking the deposit, the landlord must provide the tenant with the following details:
Please refer to the following Government website for guidance and information on the available schemes.
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